Updated
Cat food safety
Can Cats Eat Mealworms? Tiny Plain Treat Only
Tiny plain treat only
Some healthy cats can have a tiny plain dried mealworm treat, but it should be pet-safe and occasional.
MealwormsCall for swelling, breathing trouble, choking, or repeated symptoms
Call your veterinarian if swelling, breathing trouble, repeated vomiting, severe diarrhea, or choking happens.
Source matters
Pet-safe dried treats are different from insects found around the house or yard.
Keep the test small
Insect protein can be novel for cats, so the first portion should be tiny.
Use pet-safe dried mealworms
- Use plain dried mealworms sold as pet treats, with no seasoning or additives.
- Offer one or two tiny pieces and stop if your cat has not handled insect treats before.
Avoid wild insects and seasoned mixes
- Live insects, wild-caught insects, bird mixes with additives, seasoning, oil, salt, and large handfuls.
- Mealworms for cats with food allergies, digestive disease, prescription diets, or poor appetite unless your veterinarian approves them.
Watch
- Vomiting, diarrhea, itching, swelling, coughing, gagging, belly discomfort, or refusing food.
Portion
One or two small pieces are enough for a test. Do not use mealworms as a main protein source.
Helpful food-safety supplies
Optional tools for measuring, storing, serving, and cleaning up tiny portions safely.
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